SP3 (Taibai / Supreme White) Acupuncture Point Guide
Practitioner Guide from The Acupuncture Supply Co.
SP3 Taibai is a shu-stream; yuan-source; earth point of the Spleen channel. This Project Lotus reference brings together surface landmarks, traditional theory and practical safety considerations for qualified practitioners.
Quick reference
| Point | SP3 — Taibai (Supreme White) |
|---|---|
| Channel | Spleen — Foot Taiyin |
| Classification | Shu-Stream; Yuan-Source; Earth |
| Region | Medial forefoot |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Location | On the inner edge of the foot, in the depression behind the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the dorsal–plantar skin boundary. |
Location of SP3 Taibai
On the inner edge of the foot, in the depression behind the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the dorsal–plantar skin boundary.
Landmark sequence
- Support the foot with the great-toe side facing the practitioner.
- Identify the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
- Move proximally from the joint towards the first metatarsal shaft.
- Find the hollow at the skin boundary, rather than on the bony head.
Where a B-cun measurement is given, use the patient’s proportional body measurement. It is not a fixed centimetre distance or a universal number of the practitioner’s finger breadths. Confirm the relevant landmarks by palpation before deciding on a technique.
Distinguishing nearby points
SP3 is proximal to the first metatarsal head. SP2 lies distal to that joint; SP4 lies farther back near the first metatarsal base.
Traditional functions
Within traditional East Asian medicine, this point is commonly described in terms of the following functions:
- Tonifies Spleen Qi
- Harmonises the Spleen and Stomach
- Resolves Dampness
Traditional applications
Traditionally selected for Spleen-Qi deficiency or Damp patterns with digestive discomfort, loose stools or heaviness, and for local medial foot symptoms where clinically appropriate.
These descriptions express traditional theory. They are not claims that this individual point has been proven to prevent or cure a medical condition. A symptom or channel label alone is insufficient to select a treatment.
Planning a point combination
Consider the treatment principle, local versus distal selection and the patient’s complete presentation. Related Project Lotus guides for comparison include ST36, SP9. These are educational comparison points, not a fixed prescription. Confirm the rationale, laterality and technique within accredited training.
Anatomy and essential safety
Assess the first metatarsal head, local skin, digital vessels and sensory branches. Bunions, gout, previous surgery or reduced sensation may change the surface anatomy.
- Inspect the skin and assess local tissue, circulation and sensation. Do not needle through infected, ulcerated, inflamed or otherwise unsuitable tissue.
- Review relevant surgery, injuries, implants, bleeding risk, medication, pregnancy and previous adverse reactions.
- Use sterile single-use needles, appropriate infection control and safe sharps disposal. Obtain informed consent and document the treatment.
- Choose angle, depth and stimulation from anatomical assessment and accredited training. This guide gives no universal insertion depth. Stop and reassess unexpected sharp pain, neurological symptoms or a concerning response.
When medical assessment takes priority
Sudden severe pain with a hot swollen great-toe joint, fever, or an infected foot lesion requires medical assessment.
Moxibustion
Moxa is not an automatic addition. Consider the traditional pattern, local anatomy and the practitioner’s training. Where heat is appropriate, assess sensation, skin condition, ventilation and the patient’s ability to report discomfort; supervise continuously and prevent burns.
Research note
Evidence concerning an acupuncture treatment or a multi-point protocol cannot be assigned automatically to this point alone. This guide does not claim an independently established clinical effect for SP3. Traditional functions and clinical evidence should be discussed separately.
Frequently asked questions
Is this point bilateral?
Yes. The surface landmarks apply on both sides. Treatment laterality depends on assessment and the chosen clinical strategy.
Can the image replace palpation?
No. The image shows the landmark relationship schematically. Body proportions, tendon visibility and tissue depth vary, so trained examination remains essential.
Is this a self-needling guide?
No. It is an educational reference for qualified practitioners and does not replace professional training or medical assessment.
Continue exploring Project Lotus
Browse our Acupuncture Point Guides and professional acupuncture needles.
Professional note: Educational material for qualified acupuncture practitioners. Individual assessment, consent, safe technique and appropriate referral remain the practitioner’s responsibility.
References: WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations, updated reprint 2009 (entry SP3); CEIMEC point atlas (cross-check; WHO takes precedence where descriptions differ); Joel Penner, American Dragon: traditional point reference; NCCIH: acupuncture evidence and safety. Checked 5 October 2026.
